Emphasis Preaching Journal

In 1844 a group of 50,000 followers expected the immediate return of Jesus. So strongly did they hold these beliefs that many sold their possessions and others let their fields lie fallow. When Jesus did not return, the aftermath was called the Great Disappointment. Some, sadly, even committed suicide. In May of that year, the remaining followers organized themselves into a church. They called themselves Adventists, for they expected the immediate return -- advent -- of Jesus.